First Fix Carpentry
The structural backbone of your build
First fix is everything that happens before the plaster goes on — the structural carpentry that determines whether the rest of the build runs smoothly. Get it wrong and every trade that follows pays for it. Get it right and the whole project sings.
With over 19 years framing new builds and extensions across Hampshire, PRM Carpentry cuts roofs, lays joists and frames walls to the millimetre — square, plumb, level and to spec. We read drawings properly, flag issues early, and leave a clean, accurate structure ready for the next trade.
Whether it's a traditional cut roof, engineered joists or a full timber-frame extension, you get carpentry a building inspector is happy to sign off first time.
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Request a Quote Call 07983 630628First fix carpentry in Hampshire, explained
First fix carpentry is the structural timber work that goes in before plastering: roofs, floor joists, stud walls, door linings, window boards and the noggins that everything else will be fixed to later. On a new build or extension it sits between the brickwork and the plasterer, and it sets the standard for every trade that follows. If a stud wall is out of plumb or a joist is out of level, the plasterer, kitchen fitter and flooring fitter all end up working around it.
PRM Carpentry works for homeowners, builders and self-builders across Hampshire, from single-storey rear extensions in Eastleigh and Chandler's Ford to loft conversions and full new builds around Southampton and Winchester. We work from your architect's or engineer's drawings, check sizes and levels on site before cutting, and raise anything that does not add up before it becomes expensive.
Cut roofs are a big part of what we do. A traditional cut roof is built on site from loose timber, with rafters, ridge, purlins and hips cut to suit the building, rather than delivered as factory-made trusses. It gives you usable loft space and flexibility on awkward shapes, but it needs a carpenter who can set it out accurately. Our guide what is a cut roof? explains how it differs from trussed roofs, and how much a cut roof costs in Hampshire covers the main price factors.
Timing matters too. First fix carpentry usually runs alongside first fix electrics and plumbing, and building control will often want to see the structure before it is covered. We plan our work around those inspections and around your other trades so the job keeps moving.
first fix carpentry FAQs
What is the difference between first fix and second fix carpentry?
First fix is the structural carpentry done before plastering, such as roofs, joists, stud walls and door linings. Second fix is the finishing work done after plastering, such as hanging doors, fitting skirting and architrave, and installing kitchens. Our first fix vs second fix guide covers it in more detail.
How long does first fix carpentry take on an extension?
For a typical single-storey extension, the first fix carpentry is often a matter of days to a couple of weeks, depending on the roof design, the size of the floor and how many internal walls there are. Our extension timeline guide breaks this down.
Do you work for builders as well as homeowners?
Yes. We work directly for homeowners and self-builders, and as a subcontract carpenter for builders and developers who need reliable first fix on their sites across Hampshire.
Can you build a cut roof rather than using trusses?
Yes. Cut roofs are one of our specialities. They are well suited to extensions that need to tie into an existing roof, rooms in the roof and buildings with awkward shapes.
Do you work to building regulations?
Yes. We work from approved drawings and engineer's calculations, and we plan our work around building control inspections so the structure can be signed off before it is covered up.
Local carpenter across Southampton, Winchester & Hampshire
PRM Carpentry is based in Chandler's Ford and provides first fix carpentry for homeowners, builders and developers across Hampshire and the SO postcode area. We cover the towns below and the villages in between. Not sure if you are in our area? Call 07983 630628 or request a free quote.
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